Google has updated their Gmail appfor iOS with several new additions, and its most requested feature of all – multiple account support – has finally been implemented. The official Google mail client for the iPhone has improved over various updates, but users were only able to add one Gmail account at a time, which was a deal breaker for many. From Google Product Manager Matthew Izatt:

Six months ago, our team set out to completely rebuild the Gmail app for iPhone and iPad to give you you a faster, sleeker, and easier experience on iOS. The result? Version 2.0. With version 2.0 of the app, you’ll get a totally new look and feel, plus a bunch of improvements like profile pictures in messages, numerous new animations from swivels to transitions and infinite scrolling in the message lists.

Google has updated their Gmail app with several handy (and overdue) features that could lure back previous users who’ve since jumped onto the Sparrow bandwagon. First and foremost is the full integration of iOS’ Notification Center, meaning you can finally setup banner, alert and lock screen notifications whenever new emails arrive into your inbox. According to Google, notifications are now “5x faster than in the previous version”. Also new is the “Send-as” feature, which gives users the ability to send emails with alternate email addresses. For this to work, you’ll first need to set it up in Gmail on your PC/Mac under Settings –> Accounts –> Send mail as, where you can add another email addy you own. Once configured, you’ll see a From: option when composing new messages right from within the app.

Mobile Signature and Vacation Responder, accessible via the gear settings icon at the top of the menu view

Numerous bug fixes and UI improvements

Aside from the mobile signature, vacation responder and new custom sound for iOS 5 users, a notable new addition is the ability to create quick doodles to attach to your email. Using the Gmail app or Gmail for mobile, you can now open up a canvas and scribble whatever your heart desires. This basic drawing tool supports different colors, brush sizes, lines, erasers and spray paint. As for future updates, Google has stated that they’re working on banner notifications, multiple login support, and a “send-as” feature for users with multiple gmail accounts.